I have a 1995 Olds Silhouette with the 3800 v-6 engine. It has 185000 miles. I have had to replace the computer 2 times in 15 years and the latest one is going bad, again. The problem; dash gages don't work, power windows and seats don't work, ABS light stays on, low gas light stays on, engine starts and runs but idle varies, transmission acts like it wants to start in high gear and it feels like the brakes are engaged.

My questions - Is this a known problem? And, is there anything I can do to fix the current computer, short of replacement?

The first replacement was done after trouble shooting by a certified repair shop. The next 2 were done because all the symptoms were the same. Again these were done by a certified repair shop. In all cases the repairs were not done at a dealership.

I don't see what inoperative dash gauges, inoperative power window, inoperative power seat, the low fuel warning indicator, and ABS warning lamp have anything to do with the PCM.

The idle problem and transmission taking off in a high gear are possible PCM problems, but just because a PCM was replaced in the past solved those problems, doesn't mean it is the PCM again.

Those things above probably have something in common (except for power seats), such as an ignition switch problem. The ignition switch also feeds the transmission solenoids and ignition power to the PCM. Just a thought.

Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.

He doesn't mean the piece you put the key into. That simply hooks into a linkage which goes to the ignition switch on top of the column tube. In it are a lot of wires controlling most all of the power supply to the systems in your vehicle.

Ok. So that means that the steering wheel, air bag and a whole lot of other stuff has to come off of the steering column. I still would like to know if a slightly experienced old timer can do this himself.

This is what the switch looks like. You remove the lower trim panel of the dash and there will be 4 bolts holding the column up. Take those out and lower the column to access the switch. No need to pull airbags and steering wheel, but battery needs to be unhooked. A rather simple bolt on piece and within the abilities of someone with a few tools and basic knowledge of their use.

This last picture and advise is great. If, indeed, this is the problem then I should be able to replace it.

This morning I started the van and wiggled the key switch around. Guest what? Everything came back on and was working fine. When I wiggled it more it would cut out and come back. So it looks like the problem is one or the other of these 2 items. I have heard that when people (usually women like my wife) hang heavy key rings from the key lock that it can cause this kind of trouble.

heavy key rings cause the lock cylinder to not work right. Yours works at the moment although I'd toss the extra crap you wife has on hers for her own good and yours. Like HT said, the lock cylinder is a long way from the electrical. The ignition is also much easier to change than the lock cylinder. For that one you do have to rip apart the column.